Background

In the past 10 years, rates of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI) have increased in England. Experiences in some maternity units have shown that some of the underlying problems related to this rise in OASI include:

Inconsistencies in approaches to preventing OASIs

Inconsistencies in training and skills

Lack of awareness of risk factors and long-term impact of OASIs

Variation in practice between health professionals

In light of this, the OASI care bundle team have developed and piloted an intervention package, including a care bundle and guide, a multidisciplinary skills development module for health care professionals, and campaign materials (such as leaflets and newsletters designed to raise awareness).

The OASI Care Bundle Project received funding from the Health Foundation Scaling Up Programme to implement this intervention in 16 maternity units across England, Scotland and Wales.